Prevention prevails on the playing field

"Schools and sports teams should always have an emergency plan in place and implement a comprehensive athletic health care program, including injury prevention, education, and treatment," emphasizes Brian Robinson of the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Dallas. "It's critical to have these elements approved and continually reviewed as part of an overall sports safety protocol."

NATA recommends the following tips for parents, coaches, medical professionals, and athletes:

* Children participating in sports should receive a general health exam prior to activity to make sure they are fit to play. Discuss any preexisting conditions with a physician.

* Develop a written emergency plan in consultation with the local emergency medical service. Review it regularly and share it with the appropriate team, school, and medical professionals.

* Make sure to read manufacturers' instructions for proper use and fit. It especially is important that masks, gloves, pads, guards, and other gear fit snugly for best protection. Equipment should be inspected on a regular basis so that it is a proper fit and is in good condition while meeting national standards.

* Coaches, trainers, and parents should ensure that children are physically and mentally conditioned, properly trained in a particular sport or activity, and matched with those of similar skill level, weight, and maturity.

* Remove debris, water, rocks, and other hazards from the field, rink, or court. If playing outdoors, adults must consider current and potential weather conditions (e.g. lightning) as part of their inspection. Check out all equipment (goals, baskets, nets) on a regular basis and make sure the items meet standards for play.

* Stock a first aid kit and keep it on-site for medical emergencies. Include supplies for wound management and bee stings, such as elastic wraps and bandages, an ice compress, medical tape, and sterile solution, among other items.

* Youngsters should be supervised at all times on the playing field by a parent, coach, certified athletic trainer, or other medical professional.

* Establish a hydration plan that allows children to drink water or sports refreshments throughout exercise sessions (about seven to 10 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes). Players should hydrate before and after activity, or they are at risk of developing exertional heat related illnesses.

* Incorporate healthy foods in the daily diet, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy, as well as meat, poultry, and fish to give them the fuel they need to exercise. A balanced and moderate approach is best.

* Always warm up before activity, take rest breaks, and cool down and stretch after play. To avoid overuse injuries, players should not participate on more than one sports team at one time.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Society for the Advancement of Education
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning